Liberty Steel fires workers amid spread of coronavirus pandemic in UK

Liberty Steel said its Rotherham smelter is expected to lay off 200 employees in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He has been shutting down production of liquid steel at his Rotherham plant for three weeks, starting immediately, due to falling demand caused by the COVID-19 crisis. The firm said the smelter staff would be fatigued during the suspension, but subsequent operations, including rolling mills, remained open and the company continued to ship products. Liberty Steel said: “Like employers across the UK, Liberty Steel is adapting its business in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 epidemic. The health and well-being of our people remains a top priority for Liberty Steel. Therefore, we are taking all necessary steps, in line with WHO and government guidance, to protect our workforce, including enforcing social distancing rules. Our goal is to keep steel mills open given the key role our industry plays in supplying equipment to key industries including healthcare, food processing and national infrastructure. However, we adapt production to meet demand on an individual basis and take decisive action when necessary. ”

In response to changing consumer demand, Liberty Steel is expected to suspend liquid steel production at its Rotherham steel mill for three weeks with immediate effect. This is a temporary measure, but it will require the dismissal of meltshop employees. Processing operations, including rolling mills, remain open and we continue to ship products. “Our Rotherham smelter has the flexibility to stop production for short periods without any damage to equipment. We are grateful for the support and understanding of our employees, customers, suppliers, trade unions and the local community. "